Stalking and Harassment

Stalking is not flattering, it’s not okay and it must be taken seriously.

Stalking is a pattern of fixated and obsessive behaviour, which is unwanted, repeated, persistent and intrusive.

It endangers and causes fear of violence, alarm and distress to the victim.

If you or someone you know is in immediate danger, please call 999

What does stalking involve?

  • Unwanted and persistent pursuit of someone romantically or otherwise
  • Tracking someone’s personal location constantly
  • Monitoring someone’s computer activity through Spyware or hacking
  • Tracking the location of someone’s children, family members, friends, or colleagues
  • Watching and spying on a person
Research suggests stalking has been a factor in 94% of domestic homicides
Stalking
  • 1
    Report it as early as possible to the police and tell others what is happening
  • 2
    Ensure you get good practical advice – contact Paladin or call the National Stalking Helpline
  • 3
    Proactive evidence collection – keep all the evidence
  • 4
    Overview of what is happening – keep a diary
  • 5
    Risk Checklist – complete the Stalking DASH
  • 6

    Trust your instincts

Further Reading and Resources

  • Exploring the Relationship Between Stalking and Homicide – Suzy Lamplugh Trust, 2017. The results of a six-month study by the Homicide Research Group at the University of Gloucestershire suggest there is a strong correlation between some key stalking behaviours and homicide, and that identifying the intention behind the stalking, and then managing the fixation, may reveal opportunities to save lives.

  • Key Questions to Consider in Stalking Cases – Sheridan and Roberts, 2011. This is a study of 1,565 victims of stalking. This research looks at the indicators of risk, profiles of perpetrators, questions that police should consider, levels of injuries victims suffered and more.

  • Stalking or harassment – College of Policing, Authorised Professional Practice, 2021. This page includes advice and information.

  • Stalking and Harassment – the Crown Prosecution Service guidance gives an overview of the issues of stalking, information on the law and legislation and recommendations on Restraining Orders.

  • Staking DASH (S-DASH) includes 12 risk-screening questions as a follow-up to a DASH, which specifically allows the assessor/practitioner to explore the issues of stalking and harassment in more detail.

  • Digital stalking: A guide to technology risks for victims – Jennifer Parry, 2012. This guide contains a lot of useful information regarding digital stalking, however, as it is nearly 10 years old it is recommended you utilise our Staying Safe Online page for more up-to-date technology advice.